The streets of the city centre are largely pedestrian friendly and you can enjoy the many street acts that both entertain and delight. As you will discover, Galway offers a dizzying array of activities to enjoy, beautiful sightseeing spots, and so many ways to see all that Galway has to offer.
Galway & The Wild Atlantic Way
Relax or take a dip on the beaches of Salthill or take a trip further West the landscape of the Connemara Gaeltacht lies in wait with much beautiful Galway scenery to enjoy and it is the region where you will find the Irish “Gaelic” Language. Set in the heart of Connemara, Kylemore Abbey has been the home of Benedictine Nuns since 1920. One of Ireland’s finest architectural gems, this Neo-Gothic Castle and a restored Victorian Walled Garden set in tranquil and beautiful surroundings. There is also plenty to do in Connemara, be sure to check what’s on.
If you have time to explore the western coast then the Wild Atlantic Way is a strong recommendation as it gives a route to follow and by doing so you will get to uncover special sightseeing scenery along the way.
Eyre Square
Eyre Square also known as John F. Kennedy Memorial Park is located in the city centre of Galway. A lot of tours start here due to the large number of historic statues and artefacts situated here. On a summer’s day, you will find everyone lying out and enjoying the sun on the green, giving it a relaxed atmosphere. Many a festival and events set up in Eyre Square such as the annual Christmas market, Vodafone Comedy Carnival and the Galway Arts Festival.
Eyre square is directly beside the shopping scene in Galway with Corbet Court shopping centre located just off Eyre Square and Shop Street just a 2-minute walk. As well as being beside all the great shops, Eyre Square is located beside the train and coach stations and bus stops, with all buses in Galway city leading back to Eyre Square. Maldron Hotel Sandy Road is just a 15-minute walk to Eyre Square allowing you to shop till you drop.
Galway Racecourse
Maldron Hotel Sandy Road is one of the hotels near Galway racecourse. Located in Ballybrit, we are just a 10-minute drive away. The Galway Racecourse hosts a number of events throughout the year, with the largest and by far the most popular event, being the summer festival. The summer festival is Ireland’s biggest and most famous racing festival held at the end of July and takes place over a busy 7 days of fun.
Throughout September and October, there are various race days held for those who want the excitement but not the crazy crowds. During the Christmas season the Galway Racecourse gets a whole new look when elf town takes over, the highly popular interactive Christmas experience is the perfect thing to get you in the holiday spirit.
Salthill
Sightseeing in Galway wouldn’t be complete without this next one:
Salthill also known as “Bóthar na Trá” which translates to “the road by the sea”. It is a seaside village that holds breath-taking views. On a clear day, the Aran Islands are visible to the right, with Galway City to the left. Directly across Galway Bay you can see County Clare and sometimes you can even see the Connemara mountains.
Salthill village has a number of restaurants, bars and hotels for you to sit back, relax and enjoy. If you are looking for something a bit more fun, Salthill has amusements indoor and out, golf clubs, venues for events, casinos, an aquarium, swimming pools, windsurfing and boat tours to keep you entertained.
Rugby Breaks
The Connacht Rugby team is one of the four professional rugby teams in Ireland. Galway is proud to be the location of the Galway Sports ground, which is home to the Connacht Rugby team. Connacht Rugby plays a large role in the sports community in Galway, with matches regularly being played throughout the year. With it being just a 15-minute walk from the hotel, the Maldron Hotel Sandy Road is ideally located.
Golfing Breaks
Golfers are spoiled for choice with an array of world class parkland courses throughout the County, with absolutely stunning views Galway is the perfect place to play a few rounds of golf.
Aran Islands
Take a ferry to another world and leave the mainland behind by visiting the Aran Islands. Walk, hire a bike, meet a four legged friend and take a trip around the islands to see historical features and enjoy a break from the latest technology by learning to relax old style. The islands are truly in a world of their own.
Soccer Breaks
Galway hosts a large number of soccer games with the city having its very own team Galway United. The team can be seen playing at the Eamonn Deacy Park, which is located less than 15 minutes’ walk from the hotel. The games always create a great atmosphere around the city and county. You can purchase tickets online or from the ticket booths outside of Eamonn Deacy Park at all home matches.
Fishing & Seaside Attractions
A famous place for fishing here you can enjoy coarse fishing, river angling, and sea angling – all available locally. Galway’s boating culture is one to watch, admire the striking Galway Hookers from the harbour or enjoy a cruise on the Corrib if you get a chance. For a deep sightseeing experience, you can visit Galway Atlantaquaria, the national aquarium, presents a comprehensive view of the world of water, imaginatively recreating natural habitats from the seabed to local rivers and lakes.
Irish Culture & Festivals
For the very best in Irish culture be sure to check out what’s playing at Galway’s vibrant theatres. Here you will find Ireland’s only Irish language theatre Taibhdhearc na Gaillimhe as well as the world renowned Druid, Town Hall Theatre and Trad on the prom show!
Galway is a hive of activity throughout the year and there is always something going on with multiple festivals attracting both visitors and locals alike for fun and frolics. From sports to music, theatre to food, there is something for every interest. Our calendar of events will keep you up to date on the latest events and festivals.
Sky Road Clifden
The Sky Road in Clifden is famously known for its absolutely stunning views. The 16km route takes you out the west of Clifden and onto the Wild Atlantic driving route. This drive is not for the faint-hearted, with narrow back roads throughout your journey uphill and down. Sandy beaches, miles of green grass and dozens of wandering sheep that are sure to stop you in your tracks we can guarantee it’s a must-do sightseeing in Galway.
Spanish Arch & Claddagh
On the left bank of the River Corrib you will find a historical gem of Galway known as Spanish Arch. Built in 1584 as an extension of the famous city walls, it has remained a vital part of Galway and its vast history. Today you will find locals, tourists and buskers enjoy the area on sunny days.
Across the river from Spanish Arch you will find the famous Claddagh, one of the oldest fishing towns in Ireland thought to have been in existence since the 5th century. The Claddagh is more internationally famous for the Claddagh ring and the Claddagh swans which you can always find gracefully floating along the edge of Claddagh.
Lucky for us you would find these two historic parts of Galway just a 15-minute walk from us here at Maldron Sandy Road Galway.
You’re wondering what to do outside of sightseeing? Be sure to check our other list including what to do in Connemara, the best nightclubs and pubs in Galway or even shopping break. If you’re around in December, the Galway Christmas market is also a must-do.
Need entertainment based activities? We recommend Trad on the Prom for a traditional Irish show or Galway Racecourse for some horse racing events!
